Unlocking Your Effective Self

One of the biggest mindset shifts that has helped me is this: we’re not just one person, we’re many versions of ourselves, (and that’s a good thing). We all play different roles - at work, at home, at the gym, when we are out with our high school friends. Instead of feeling stuck as one version of you, why not lean into the version that fits the moment? This week, we’re talking about how to tap into your best selves on demand.

Tip of the Week: Your habits follow your identity. Embrace Your Different Selves to Accomplish More.

THE THEORY

The Alter Ego Effect helps us ditch self-doubt by stepping into a more powerful version of ourselves. Todd Herman talks about how top performers like Kobe Bryant (a.k.a. "Black Mamba") and Beyoncé ("Sasha Fierce") created alter egos to dominate in high-pressure moments. When you trigger a different identity, or "totems" as the book calls it, (whether by changing your mindset, or putting on a symbolic outfit) you unlock confidence and focus that might not come naturally otherwise.

The trigger that activates your alter-ego can be your alarm clock. The Three Alarms method by Eric Partaker reinforces this idea. We can set reminders throughout the day to step into different identities. For instance, "CEO mode" for work, "Athlete mode" for exercise, and "Family mode" for home life. Instead of feeling torn between different responsibilities, you’re intentionally triggering and shifting into the right version of you at the right time.

Identity Theory explains why this works. Our sense of self is shaped by the roles we play. We naturally behave in ways that match how we see ourselves: if we identify as a leader, we lead; if we see ourselves as healthy, we make better choices. As Identity Theory puts it, how we finish the sentence “I am…” shapes our actions. Saying “I am a runner” makes running inevitable. This also ties into the Hero’s Journey, where transformation begins by stepping into a new identity before it feels natural. Your habits follow your identity, not the other way around.

MY PERSONAL THOUGHTS

One of the fastest ways to grow is to fire the versions of yourself that don’t serve you (and promote the ones that do). Two great examples I have seen (although I am personally not a big fan of either) are: (1) Brian Johnson talking about how he "fired" his evening self (who snacked too much and stayed up late) and replaced him with a better version; and (2) Stephanie Germanotta promoting her "Lady Gaga" superstar persona to become who she wanted to be. From recent performances, I believe Stephanie is going back to her overall self, but without promoting her Lady Gaga persona, maybe we wouldn't know who she is.  This is not meant to be fake...it’s just a faster way to step into your best self.

For me, music is a huge trigger for shifting identities. If I wake up cranky but put on upbeat music, it’s like flipping a switch. I suddenly feel more energetic and approachable. When I write, I listen to jazz, which helps me tap into what I call my "Hemingway self." And when I work out, I blast intense music to push myself harder. The right soundtrack can instantly shift your mindset (I wrote a full post on this topic here.)

HOW TO PUT THIS INTO PRACTICE

1. Name Your Different Selves – Who do you need/want to be in different parts of your day? Give each version a name (seriously, it works).

2. Fire & Promote – Identify a version of you that’s holding you back, and replace it with a better one.

3. Try using Physical Triggers – Put on a certain jacket, glasses, or even a playlist to activate different versions of you.

4. Try setting Time-Based Identity Shifts – Try the Three Alarms method or use calendar reminders to shift gears intentionally.

5. Reinforce Identity with “I Am” Statements – Don’t just wish for change...become it. Instead of “I need to write more,” say “I am a writer.”

6. Leverage Music to Set the Mood – Build playlists for different modes: focus, energy, relaxation - you’ll be amazed at the impact.

7. Surround Yourself with Reinforcement – If you want to become a certain version of yourself, spend more time around people who already reflect that identity.

You already have everything you need to be more effective, you just have to step into the right version of yourself at the right time.

Multifacetfully yours,

Jorge Luis Pando